Silex Unwired

Qualcomm Atheros (QCA) Authorized Design Center (ADC) Training

I had a very productive two days at Qualcomm Atheros (QCA) headquarters last month in San Jose.

We were thrilled to be invited to this event as one of 12 Authorized Design Centers (ADCs) throughout the world. Highlights from the training included:

Authorized Design Center (ADC) Status and Special Training Opportunities

There have been a number of major changes since January 2011 when it was first announced that Qualcomm was going to acquire Atheros. The good news for Silex Technology (and other ADCs) is that Qualcomm recognizes that they need a strong channel of partners to address the growing demand for Wi-Fi technology. The email invitation for the first ADC training stated:training

“As Qualcomm continues to evolve the way it addresses segments and customers, this program will be instrumental in our ability to win at all tiers of customers.”

In the past, ADCs like Silex Technology, were invited to join Atheros FAE training events. But as the ADCs have increased in strategic importance, QCA decided to invest in a more targeted training event. And this is only the first step in many new enhancements to the ADC program.

Connection to the Internet of Everything (IoE)
iotOne of the reasons that the ADC program has taken on increased significance is Qualcomm’s decision to expand its narrow customer base to make Wi-Fi a ubiquitous technology that is used in a wide range of applications and implemented by a large number of customers. A big part of the ADC role is to enable Wi-Fi connectivity for this broad market opportunity.

SIlex Technology is designing solutions based around the QCA AR4004 ultra-low power radio. Stay tuned for a formal announcement in the near future!

Insight into Updated Roadmaps

roadmapA major part of the event’s agenda was to review product roadmaps each business unit put forward as the key platforms they want supported by ADC community. We received updates on QCA hardware, reference designs, and software features so that we can better plan our own product roadmaps based on that technology and to keep our customers informed of the latest technology trends.

Great Networking

networkingAnother benefit of the meeting was social time to spend with various QCA personnel (sales, FAE, and product management) to discuss specific needs and opportunities. In addition, it is the first time where the various ADCs were able to meet and get to know each other. While some ADCs may compete for the same business, there is so much opportunity that it remains a non-competitive environment. For Silex Technology, we are an unique ADC in that we provide a total solution (including hardware, software, and support), so it was helpful to build new relationships and partnerships while at the event.

  • Passing on the Benefits to Our Customers:

I believe that one of our competitive advantages is that we are partnered with QCA, the leading Wi-Fi silicon provider in the world. As a result of having access to its technology, being a part of its investment in the ADC program in general, and the relationship we continue to build, Silex Technology is able to consistenly deliver solutions for “When It Absolutely Must Connect”.

Additional product information can be found at www.silexamerica.com.